Over the summer months, SoonerNation will take a closer look at each scholarship player on Oklahoma’s roster in our Crimson Countdown series. We'll analyze each player’s impact on the program since they arrived on campus, their potential impact this fall and their long-term impact in the daily series. Starting with No. 1 Tony Jefferson, the series will go in numerical order until our final analysis of No. 98 Chuka Ndulue.

Impact so far: After redshirting in 2009, Allen has served as Landry Jones' backup for the past two seasons, earning playing time in blowout games. As a redshirt freshman in 2010, Allen played in five games and completed 9 of 14 passes for 89 yards. Last season Allen played in five games, completing 9 of 16 passes for 71 yards.

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Despite being overshadowed by fellow backup quarterback Blake Bell heading into fall camp, Allen remains in the battle to backup Jones this season and could be considered the favorite to win the job since he earned the backup role the past two seasons.

Allen combines adequate mobility with solid passing skills and should be comfortable with the offense, having been running the system for over three years. It’s difficult to know how he would do as a starter but he secured the backup quarterback position as a redshirt freshman and never relinquished it despite the arrival of the Bell, a highly-regarded recruit in 2010. It’s clear he’s not scared to compete and won’t give up his spot without a fight.

Impact in 2012: Allen is battling Bell to be Landry Jones' backup, meaning he could end up one snap away from running the offense in 2012. Even if he doesn’t win the No. 2 job, it should be reassuring for the coaching staff to have Allen on the squad.

Impact in 2013 and beyond: After Jones finishes his career this fall, the starting quarterback position will be up for grabs. Allen will be the most mature competitor for the job, having spent four years in a backup role and running the system. If he seizes the opportunity, he could have a great impact in 2013. If not, he could end up as a career backup or elect to finish his career elsewhere.